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What is NYC BC § 720.1?

Quick Answer

This section outlines the requirements for insulating materials, including vapor retarders and reflective foil insulations, ensuring compliance with specified flame spread and smoke-development indices as determined by ASTM E 84 or UL 723. Applies to building owners utilizing insulating materials in construction.

General informational summary. Not legal advice for your situation. Consult an attorney before acting on any specific matter.

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720.1 General.

BC § 720.1

Insulating materials, including facings such as vapor retarders and vapor- permeable membranes, similar coverings, and all layers of single and multilayer reflective foil insulations, shall comply with the requirements of this section. Where a flame spread index or a smoke-development index is specified in this section, such index shall be determined in accordance with ASTM E 84 or UL 723. Any material that is subject to an increase in flame spread index or smoke-development index beyond the limits herein established through the effects of age, moisture or other atmospheric conditions shall not be permitted. Exceptions: 1. Fiberboard insulation shall comply with Chapter 23 of this code.

2.Foam plastic insulation shall comply with Chapter 26 of this code.

3.Duct and pipe insulation and duct and pipe coverings and linings in plenums shall comply with the New York City Mechanical Code.

4.Exterior insulation finish systems (EIFS) shall comply with Chapters 14 and 26 of this code.

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